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First off—check out Hustle Reload #60 on YouTube and see what’s brewing at Hustle Paintball. Spoiler alert: there will be beer. An order of hops came in, grain is starting to get staked on the storage shelves, and for the first time you can begin to see the scale of our industrial brewing operation.

Last week we made some modifications to the Dangerous Power G3. Our previous edition of Reload. Please take a brief moment to visit dictionary.com before you continue reading.Reload #60 features an overview of the improvements you can find on the Hustle PB-Modified G3.

We believe that our complex modifications drastically improve the G3. No offense if you already own one and it works for you—if you are happy with your G3, we are happy for you. Let’s cut to the key improvements we made to the gun:

1. Custom Milled Body

Our first step was to use an old fashioned hand-operated milling process to custom tool the marker body (threw it into a dumpster from a distance of 50-100 feet). The result is an exposed metal finish with jagged edges that improves the ascetic form of the gun. The addition of sharp edges on the rear of the gun increase the likelihood of injury. This is an important element of paintball—you have to bleed if you want to look like a badass.

2. Slim Profile No-Rise “No Feedneck”

We designed a new No-Rise “No Feedneck” feedneck. The Hustle-Modified G3 is the first paintball gun in history for feature the sleek “No Feedneck” profile. Our complex tooling technology (dumpster throw) was used to crush the feedneck to make it inoperable. We believe that the ascetic design improvements and slim profile of the design trumps any possible functionality loss caused by the lack of a usable feedneck.

3. Improved Barrel Tip

Most custom barrels get larger over the length of the barrel. One example is the Inception Designs Setlla interchangeable system. It increases in diameter throughout the length of each section. We decided to revolt against current design trends and created a “crush-tip jagged edge” barrel tip. It puts some sort of spin on paint—sort of like a flatline-type barrel. We think it’s better, mostly because it has a tendency to break paint into smaller pieces for a shotgun effect. It’s perfect for close quarters engagements.

We recently caught up with Stark Pursuit to see what they are working on in the mag fed paintball world. These guys are serious about mag fed play. For them, it isn’t just about milsim. It’s also about the form factor that mag fed delivers. Small, light, unobtrusive—there is a slimming sleekness to markers that utalize paintball magazines and the 20 round ZetaMag. Tactically, magazine-based paintball is an entire new world that offers a variety of exciting tactical considerations and equipment options. We learned some exciting things about upcoming Stark Pursuit releases and ZetaMag projects that are in development. Check out our video interview with Ian from Stark Pursuit:

If you don’t know about the ZetaMag, you should. It’s a versatile twin-channel, 20 round capacity, reversible magazine originally designed for use with the Tippmann TPX/TiPX pistol. Operation and reloading is slick—it’s a neat idea—you reload from the same magazine by releasing it and flipping it over in the marker. Both sides of the mag hold paint. The ZetaMag is truly one of the most innovative products in magazine fed paintball. They essentially took a standard Tippmann magazine, improved weather and dust sealing, the feed channels and doubled capacity while only adding 4-inches of length.

Crowdfunded Release?

Stark has been working hard to develop and release a ZetaMag compatible with the Tiberius T8.1—Tippmann’s direct competitor in the paintball pistol market. They’ve already developed an aftermarket grip for the T8.1 that accepts ZetaMags. The grip includes an ambidextrous safety switch and release points as well as removable back grips. The idea is to create a grip that uses the ZetaMag but also provides the ultimate in fit and customization. If you aren’t into pistol play, the same grip works with the Tiberius T9.1.

Currently, the development phase of the T8.1 aftermarket grip is complete. Stark Pursuit doesn’t have the resources to tool and produce the product yet. Be on the lookout for a crowdfunding campaign to get the grip off the ground. Stark indicated that they might rely on potential customers to get the new grip into the production phase. We’re excited to see if this product takes off.

Additional Releases

Here’s something we didn’t realize. The Tippmann 98 mag fed adapter that is about to come out? It turns out that Stark Pursuit was vital to the development process. Stark began the design in 2011-2012 and brought it to Tippmann for production. It’s the perfect idea for one of the most popular paintball guns ever produced.

They are also working on a mag well for the Milsig M17. We got to see the “experimental” version along with a clear ZetaMag that currently isn’t in production. If you want to see the clear ZetaMag, Stark is open to suggestions—contact them and let them know you are interested.

Stark Pursuit also showed us the “Menace Adapter”—a ZetaMag attachment for the CCI Phantom. The adapter removes the hopper system and allows for a magazine attachment in the rear of the marker. The whole system makes the CCI Phantom’s form factor tighter. It just looks cool!

Another product that should be out soon is a magazine well for the Empire Trracer. A ZetaMag full of 20 first strike rounds will be the perfect complement to the legendary Trracer.

Be on the lookout for other releases from Stark Pursuit. We were excited to see them and encouraged by the level of communication, teamwork, and rapport they obviously have with developing products with larger companies like Tippmann.

Designed for maximum consistency, efficiency, quiet operation, and complete customization, the Stella Barrel system by Inception Designs is one of the best deals we have available right now. Each element of the three piece system is sold separately or as a complete kit. We can’t get enough of the Stella. Innovative, modular, and executed to perfection—Inception Designs hit this one out of the park. The entire barrel kit as well as individual components are available for sale on our website right now.

It might not look revolutionary—after all inserts help do match your barrel to your paint, right? The Stella is different. Pressure is one of the biggest problems associated with barrel inserts. The Stella Barrel’s patented pressure reduction porting system is one-of-a-kind and completely reduces the noise and inconsistency we’ve experienced with some insert-based custom bore designs.

Stella starts with an 8-inch control bore machined from 6061 aluminum. It’s available in a variety of custom bores (0.675″, 0.680″, 0.685″, 0.690″ 0.695″) and it is “insert ready.” Three custom bore fronts are also available (0.683″, 0.689″, 0.697″). When configuring a custom barrel, the control bore needs to be larger than the barrel front section. The front section is threaded for a tip end attachment. A variety of lengths are available.

The control bore uses autococker standard threads. The quick-threaded design uses fewer threads than most barrel systems. We anticipate that this will increase durability—more threads means an increased chance of stripping. The spacing of the control bore o-rings prevent metal on metal contact and further improve long-term durability.

Control Bore Specifications

O-Ring Seals at All Interfaces

Autococker “Quick Threads”

Machine Engraving for Size Marks

Available in Matte Black or Raw

Six Sizes and Insert-Read

Four port holes are milled into the front of the back piece. These four holes are in front of the threads; They are covered when the front barrel section is attached. The ports act as an exhaust system, emptying air before the paint reaches the front barrel attachment. The exhaust points combine with extensive front porting to reduce unnecessary pressure and deliver accurate, consistent rounds downrange.

Noise reduction is an added advantage of porting at the front of the control bore and the front barrel system. This is one of the quietest barrels currently on the market. Front bore sizing dramatically improves accuracy and consistency. Many manufacturers make custom control bores and inserts. Few take the time to design custom bore front pieces.

Barrel Front Specifications:

O-Ring Seals at All Interfaces

Porting to Maintain Efficiency and Reduce Noise

Machine Engraved Sizes

Open-Source Tip Sizing (Compatible with Variety of Tips)

Available in Matte Black or Raw

Total barrel length is only controlled by tip size. The tips are .70″ bore and available in a variety of sizes. Any Apex tip will fit the end of the barrel. Additionally, each Stella component comes with firm packaging that can be reused—this helps keep your barrel parts protected in your gear bag.

Inception Designs got everything right with this barrel. With a patented porting and exhaust system, the Stella is consistent, quiet, and accurate. It’s completely customizable; You can even use an insert with the largest control bore. For the price, there is nothing else like it available right now. Check out our website to order the barrel backs, front sections, and tips. For the ultimate in customization, the entire kit is also available.

Magazine Fed paintball is changing the game. Over the last few years, the magazine fed and milsim paintball market has expanded rapidly. We’re going to see plenty of AR-styled paintball gun releases in 2014. The Tippmann TCR, Milsig M17, the Tiberius Arms T15 (expect a review soon), and several others are poised to capture the attention of players looking to get into the world of mag fed and milsim style play.

As it gets more popular, I hear people asking all the time, “What’s the best gear for mag fed paintball” or “What’s the cheapest mag fed paintball gun?”

Try a Friend’s Mag Fed Marker

Try it before you buy it. It’s easy to offer affordable suggestions. Kingman’s Spyder Hammer 7 is under $100. If you want something new and revolutionary, the Milsig M17 CQC is about to ship and is only $299. Both options seem fairly affordable, but by the time you add a few extra magazines and maybe some first strike rounds, even the least expensive markers are going to put a dent in your wallet. Your best bet is to go to a local facility with people that play mag fed games and ask to try someone’s marker. For people accustomed to speedball it’s a different game.

Mag Fed Adapter

We already talked about the new Tippmann Mag Fed Adapter—an upgrade for the 98 Custom that uses Tru-Feed magazines or a 20-round Zeta mag. The 98 Custom adapter will start shipping in May. At just under $50, this might be the cheapest mag fed paintball option. There are plenty of 98 Customs out there waiting for a quick conversion.

MOLLE Vest and FazMag

If you get into mag fed paintball, you’ll quickly learn the importance of fast reloads. Effective equipment is just as important as a quality mag fed paintball gun.

A MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) belt or vest and magazine holders like the Milsig FazMag magazine speed pouches are the foundation of an efficient tactical reloading system. Check out our video and post on the FazMag:

There is a certain cool to mag fed that has everyone’s attention. Maybe it’s about having a badass AR style paintball gun. Personally, I think it is about the simplicity. Around 15 years ago, I started playing paintball in backwoods games with a Brass Eagle Talon and 35 round hopper. There was an excitement to the game brought on by the challenge of a simplified style. Magazine fed paintball returns me to those simple roots.

The J4 Torque is almost here! We tested one of the prototypes in November at PSP World Cup. Since then, J4 Paintball has been hard at work testing and revising the marker to perfection before release time. Many people have been excited about this one for a while and we think it will definitely live up to the hype.

This is J4 Paintball’s first marker and, right from the start, they promised to set off on a brilliant innovative path. The Torque is the first Stacked-Tube Spool-Valve (STS) paintball gun anyone has seen. Traditional spool valve markers are quiet and smooth, but they lack the efficiency and reliability of poppet-style valve configurations. Years ago, J4 had a vision to combine the reliability and maintenance ease of a poppet valve with the quiet operation and precision of spool systems. They got some designers together back in 2005 and filed the patent for the Torque’s STS valve in 2009.

It’s been a long time since development of the Torque started. J4 Paintball took their time getting it right. Their diligence shows.

The J4 Torque is reliable. The STS system drastically reduces the o-ring wear you see on traditional spool-valve markers. The drive train of the J4 is a piston that drives a standard stacked tube pull pin style bolt with an Exalt bolt tip. The piston only has three replicable o-rings that require lubrication and maintenance. The entire drive train pops right out of the back on the gun. It proves robust enough to function properly under a variety of conditions—cold, wet, hot weather—the J4 cycles consistently through everything.

J4 is still working on finalizing the firing modes. Currently, they plan for semi-auto, PSP, NPPL and Ramping. The board is LED powered—it doesn’t have one of the new OLED style displays.

The marker is auto-timed so you don’t need to worry about dwell. A Hall Effect Sensor that measures the position of the bolt and adjusts timing. The dwell really doesn’t matter. As long as you have enough dwell the gun will fire. The Hall Effect Sensor is only there to guarantee the cycle is completed before the bolt returns.

Custom Exalt grips ship with the marker, however J4 plans to release CAD for the grip, fore grip, trigger and grip panel. This will allow anyone to design their own parts so you can customize the gun to your own style. That’s a pretty sweet feature that you won’t see with many other designs. The stock barrel is a custom 14″ barrel threaded with autococker-style “Quick” threads. The gun is powered by a rechargeable CR123 battery. It was tested to 100,000 shots per charge. The feedneck is a solid mount to KEE ‘Sniper’ specs and has a cam lock lightener.

Initially, the J4 Torque will come in four colors—blue, green, red and all black. J4 plans to release more radically painted markers in the future. Right now they are keeping it basic for launch.

We’ve waited long enough for the J4 Torque to become available and now the time is finally here. It’s their first marker, the first Stacked-Tube Spool-Valve design, and an overall awesome package that took a decade of development. All of the prototype models we saw and tested—both at PSP World Championships and the 2014 Paintball Extravaganza impressed and delivered on J4 Paintball’s long promise that this marker would be a game changer.

HK Army teased the release of the KLR goggles at World Cup 2013 and we just saw them again at Paintball Extravaganza 2014 a few weeks ago. They are available for pre-order right now and they should be shipping out very soon.

The KLR spent four years in the development stage with HK Army consistently claiming that they would be the “most technically advanced goggle system ever released in the sport of paintball.” When it comes to style, visual appeal, and customization, HK Army’s innovative claims might be right. The KLR has a sleek profile and list of customization features that dominate other goggles on the market right now.

PVT Lock System

HK Army’s PVT Lock System is the soul of the new mask. The KLR is the first goggle system designed to incorporate a completely interchangeable lens, strap, and hinge that can be easily switched out and customized in seconds. HK’s patent-pending PVT lock is easy to use. To switch out the lens you simply unclip the strap, open the strap-retained PVT lock hinges, replace the lens and clip the PVT lock hinges back in place.

One of the best elements of the PVT lock system is color and lens customization. There are 10 total lens options for every situation, 15 different strap colors, and 16 PVT lock color options. Between the different color straps, masks, hinges and lenses you can create over 15,000 unique combinations. Aesthetically, the KLR is one of the most advanced goggles we have seen.

3D Memory Foam

The foam system HK uses contains the layers. At the base of the mask is a high-density SBR memory foam designed to absorb impacts. This is where most goggle systems stop. On top of this foam layer, is an open-cell EVA foam that matches the contours of the user, improving overall fit. Both layers are covered by the third layer—a velvet microfiber liner engineered to absorb sweat and insulate to prevent fogging. The foam system is

The EVA form earpiece (KLR soft-ear) helps protect the outer and inner ear from impacts and mask abrasion. Other mask systems have attempted to integrate earpiece foam into their designs, but the KLR is one of the only goggles that does it while maintaining a high level of comfort and a low profile.

Additional Features

Customization is where the HK KLR goggle system shines, but all of the other features you would expect are still there. The lenses are made of a dual-paned UV and infrared shielded composite (they block wavelengths of light that cause eye damage and provide glare resistance). The overmolded face shield is a dual density thermoplastic elastomer (a fancy name for rubberized plastic). A complex ventilation system promotes breathability and the overall design offers a wide freedom of movement.

The KLR is a well designed mask that HK Army spend years developing. At just under $125 for basic colors, it is a little expensive. In our opinion, it’s totally worth it. There aren’t many masks on the market that can match the KLR’s customization options, comfort and style. Pre-order yours now because once your see these in action you’re going to order it anyway.

Everyone is talking about the C2 Eyon. Tiberius Arms acknowledges that the Eyon is strikingly similar to Angel Eyes but insists that this is new mask. They are definitely downplaying the Angel Eyes pedigree. When Tiberius Arms acquired Guerilla Air, the original developers of Angel Eyes approached them with the idea of creating the Eyon. One of the obvious challenges was to improve on the Angel Eyes design—one that many people loved, but was unable to pass ASTM testing.

We got to see the C2 Eyon mask at Paintball Extravaganza 2014 and they are definitely impressive. Let’s take an in-depth look at the C2.

The entire Tiberius Arms C2 lineup is going to focus on close quarters, speedball, and cross over products. Creating a full wrap around view is where they started with the Eyon. When you put the mask on, you definitely get a full unobstructed field of view that is essential for fast-action play.

Cross over products need adaptability. It’s a new trend that we are seeing as different play styles, scenario situations, and rules develop. The C2 Eyon includes an easily removable lens. Taking the lens off is a “snap.” You fold the lens tabs 90 degrees and it slides right out. Lens adaptability and ease make cleaning simple, but also make it easy to switch play styles quickly. Switching lenses between a bright speedball match with a ton of glare potential to a dimly lit woodsball game is a breeze.

We didn’t get the opportunity to fully test the anti-fog properties of the C2 Eyon, but Tiberius Arms claims that they don’t fog up. The full thermal system is designed to ventilate properly and a lens coating helps avert the buildup of distracting moisture.

They are a comfortable set of goggles and completely customizable. One of the features we love is the lack of foam covering the noise bridge. This improves breathing dramatically and also reduces voice muffle that some masks are notorious for. The rest of the foam padding is fully customizable. You can move it around to improve comfort or replace it with a different density foam.

Tiberius says that the C2 Eyon mask is “revolutionary.” We aren’t so sure they are—they strike an uncanny resemblance to Angel Eyes, not to mention the same developers worked on the project. What they do offer is safety that Angel Eyes couldn’t.

The original Angel Eyes could not pass ASTM testing. Working with the developers, Tiberius Arms discovered that the shape, angle, and thickness of the lenses was at fault. As a result, the lens shape toward the back of the lens was altered and thickness was increased. The result is a mask that can pass ASTM testing.

We are excited about the C2 Eyon mask. They offer improved safety, excellent comfort, and the adaptability needed in today’s fast-moving paintball world. With so much talk surrounding the C2 Eyon and their similarity to Angel Eyes, orders should come in fast. Be sure to check out our ongoing pre-order.

We got to check out two exciting new Tippmann products at the 2014 Paintball Extravaganza. The first was Tippmann’s latest mag fed marker, the Tippmann TCR. The other was the Tippmann 98 Custom Mag Fed Conversion Kit which turns the classic Model 98 Custom into a mag fed marker with a 7, 12, or 20 ball magazine capacity. Check out our video where Kevin explains the adapter’s features.

Other manufacturers have made off-brand Tippmann conversion kits that are similar. This one is the real deal—guaranteed to be 100% compatible with all 98 custom, US Army, and TPN markers that utilize the 98 quick-release feed elbow. The conversion kit will ship with two 7-ball Tru-Feed magazines. Tru-feed 12-ball extended magazines and the 20-round Zetamag will also fit the adapter.

You don’t need to make any permanent marker modifications. The Tippmann conversion kit is designed to use the same fasteners as the standard Tippmann 98 quick release feed elbow. It takes seconds to install and it’s easy to switch back and forth between hopper and magazine fed paintball.

The Tru-Feed magazines are identical to the ones that come with the Tippmann TPS Pistol. They utalize a low tension spring system that allows you to use a wider variety of paint compared to other magazines. We’ve had good experience with Tru-Feed magazines. Lower tension springs are less likely to damage paint on hot and humid days.

This is an exciting product for anyone who wants to get in on the mag fed craze without spending a fortune on a new marker. Just about everyone has a Tippmann Model 98—or at least knows someone who owns one. It will definitely get more people into magazine fed paintball.

The Tippmann mag fed conversion kit will be on sale in May for under $50. Be use to check out our website when the time comes to order yours.

The eagerly anticipated Milsig M17 didn’t merely meet my expectations, it shattered them. I’ve been waiting for something like this from Milsig. The minute you see this marker, you will NEED to have it in your arsenal. Save yourself some time—stop reading this review and pre-order it right now, it is seriously that good.

We got our hands on the whole line-up of new M17 markers at the Paintball Extravaganza just a few days ago. They are hard to put down. Check out the video:

High Efficiency Air Technology (HEAT)

You might already be familiar with Milsig’s new valve system to replace the ”blow-back” valve you see on Tippman-style markers. Just in case you don’t know about it, here is a quick run-down. Traditionally, “blow-back” valves are durable, simple, and easy to maintain. The problem? They completely suck away efficiency.

That’s where the Milsig’s “High Efficiency Air Technology” or “HEAT” core comes in. The Heat core is a “blow-forward” style spool valve that gets rid of the cocking arm. In theory and practice, the Heat core is easier to maintain, more reliable and more consistent than the old “blow-back” style valves.

Milsig claims impressive accuracy improvements due to the heat core—as little as +/- 2 fps. Because accuracy is all about consistency, you need a “blow-foward” style valve if you want to impress with marksmanship skills.

Mechanical Full Auto

No batteries, no electronics, just mechanical fully automatic firing. This is where the Milsig M17 is making the most waves. Combined with the Heat core, the mechanical full auto puts the M17 on a different level. There are no electronics to break. No batteries to replace. It’s completely awesome.

Mechanical full auto and the Heat core make regular maintenance easy. There are only five O-rings in the whole marker and you only need to service two of them regularly. You get to the internals by removing just two pins. It’s fast, it’s easy, and there are no hassles.

Additional Features and Function

The coolest part about this marker for me is the new grip design. You can attach any standard AR-15 grips to the marker, offering a virtually unlimited array of possibilities.The AR-15 style cocking handle is pretty sweet too—they only needed to add it so you could clear a jam. With the First Strike ready 18 round magazine, it looks badass right out of the box.

Three Models

The Milsig M17 CQC is under $300. Designed to replace the CQB PRO, it comes in at a low price but packs a huge punch. For me, it’s the ultimate close quarters marker. Lightweight, durable, a high quality construction and feel—it’s perfect for rushing in fast and getting out quick. With the short barrel, it looks just like a classic SMG.

The M17 XDC is around twice the price of the CQC, but it has the ability to do it all. It comes with a machined receiver and foregrip and the mid-length Marksman Rifled Barrel System. This is the best all-around marker in the lineup.

The M17 DMR tops off the lineup. It was developed for long range engagements. As a completely dedicated sniper platform, it includes the Milsig 400mm FSR Marksman barrel. The price is higher, but you will find very few out of the box sniper markers that are better.

The only downside that I can see to the Milsig M17 is first, which one should I buy? And second, I am not going to be alone because everyone is going to order one.

On this counter, Erik goes over Proto’s new PMR, the Maxxed! He also thoroughly compares Planet gearbags and Dye gearbags – what’s best for you?
We also quickly show off Pooty’s new barrel system. Check the link below!
Russell also hops in and talks about some of his favorite pants, The Exalt Thrashers!

The Eclipse Classic Kitbag has two compartments; the main compartment is big enough to cram in loads of gear and also has some handy large internal zip pockets and a clear document holder. A water resistant lining makes removing paint and dirt a touch easier. The side compartment is great for keeping your clean gear separate from your dirty stuff or just fill it with more dirty stuff! Your choice.

Protect your gear from opportunist thieves! The Eclipse Bag Lock System allows you to pass a combination lock cable (not supplied) through the specially designed guide holes on the side of the bag, this then feeds through the trigger frame of your Paintball Marker on the inside of your Kitbag and back out so you can secure the cable to a fixed or heavy object, now no-one can lift your Paintball Marker from inside or tow your kitbag, sweet!

If you’re the type of hardcore baller who throws your gear in a bag after practice, and you don’t touch it again until the next time you’re at the field, the Resister was made for you. It has three compartments, and the main section is massive. The Resister is the first thermal lined bag, boasting the first water-resistant exterior and interior. The Resister’s design keeps your gear cool on hot summer days, and stops your collected sweat from fermenting when the sun heats it up. When your gear has gone past the acceptable level of funk, you can empty it, wash it down inside and out, let it dry, and start the fungus culture experiment all over again. Made with the same durable construction as the rest of the Dye Dry line, you won’t have to worry about wear. It also features a front internal thermal compartment for your goggles (which also doubles as a cooler for cold ones after your victory), as well as plenty of space for the rest of your hard and soft gear.

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People have long since tired of the norm, the average, and the mundane. Bland design, mediocre service, and an unknowledgeable staff are just some of the indicators of the average paintball website. You're better than that, and you're bringing it to the table. Hustle Paintball is right there with you, and we'll never back down. We've got the latest gear, the most descriptive information, and of course, the best prices.